Sara Duterte Shares Update on Former Leader as Trial Looms
SARA DUTERTE – Amid mounting legal developments, Sara Duterte revealed what she witnessed during her visit to her father in The Hague.
Vice President Sara Duterte recently travelled to The Hague and shared an update on the condition of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, amid ongoing proceedings before the International Criminal Court.
Speaking to members of the Filipino community, the vice president assured the public that the former leader remains in stable health. “He looks well. He looks healthy. He doesn’t have any problem,” she said in an interview, as seen in a video released by ABS-CBN. She also revealed that she had encouraged her father to consider physiotherapy as part of his routine, although he declined the suggestion. “I suggested that he undergo physiotherapy, but he refused… So, we’ll see tomorrow if we can convince him to undergo physiotherapy, in lieu of what should be his daily exercise,” she added.
The visit comes as legal developments continue to unfold at the ICC, where proceedings are underway over allegations of crimes against humanity tied to the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign. Despite the seriousness of the case, the former president has not personally appeared in court and has waived certain rights regarding attendance in the early stages. In a previous letter to the Pre-Trial Chamber I, he described himself as “old, tired, and frail.”
On April 22, the ICC Appeals Chamber affirmed its jurisdiction over the case involving Rodrigo Duterte. Asked for her reaction, the vice president said she “accepted it as it is.” A day later, the Pre-Trial Chamber I confirmed the charges, though the former president’s legal team has sought permission to challenge this ruling.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Sara Duterte emphasised the importance of preparing for what lies ahead. “This is also what we have discussed with our lawyers. We don’t see any way that ICC will let go of the case of President Duterte.” She added, “This will really go to trial, and the best way to move forward is to prepare for trial.”
Meanwhile, proceedings continue to progress. On May 1, the ICC Trial Chamber III ordered a review of Duterte’s detention to determine whether legal grounds remain valid. A status conference is set for May 27, where further steps toward trial preparations may be discussed.
Despite the circumstances, the vice president expressed gratitude to overseas supporters. “I wouldn’t say I’m happy to be back because of the situation of President Duterte, but I’m happy to see all of you again,” she said. She also noted, “Almost every day, the prayer is that President Duterte will be able to come home.”
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